What are bands or sheets of fibrous tissue that support bones at joints called?

The correct term for the bands or sheets of fibrous tissue that support bones at joints is ligaments. These structures play a critical role in maintaining the stability and integrity of a joint by connecting bones to one another. Ligaments are made of dense connective tissue and are designed to withstand tensile forces, which helps limit excessive movement between the bones and prevent dislocations.

Understanding the role of ligaments is essential in the field of esthetics, particularly when considering massages, skin treatments, or other procedures that may interact with bodily movements. Proper functioning of ligaments is important for joint health and overall movement, which can impact a client’s skin and body care routines.

Tendons, for instance, connect muscles to bones and are not responsible for the stability of joints in the same manner as ligaments. Cartilage, on the other hand, provides cushioning at the ends of bones and contributes to smooth joint movement but does not connect bones together. Synovium is the lining of the joint capsule that produces synovial fluid, facilitating lubricated joint movement, but it does not provide structural support between bones.